Dr. Aisha Sulaiman Achimugu, OFR, Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Felak Concept Group, has paid an emotional tribute to her late husband, Engr. Sulaiman Akao Achimugu, former Managing Director of the Pipelines and Products Marketing Company (PPMC), on what would have been his 70th birthday, in a heartfelt message shared on Instagram on Tuesday, 10 November 2026.

In a touching remembrance that offered a glimpse into their life together, the businesswoman reflected on their marriage, the memories they shared and the enduring influence of a man she fondly called her handsome husband, best friend and forever Honey.

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The tribute went beyond a conventional birthday message, revealing the depth of her loss while celebrating the companionship, encouragement and support that defined their relationship.

“Today, you would have turned 70. Seventy beautiful years. A milestone I imagined celebrating with you, surrounded by our children, laughter, love, and the beautiful memories we would have continued creating together,” she wrote.

Achimugu admitted that despite the strength she has developed over the years, her husband’s absence remains deeply felt, describing him as the one person whose place in her heart could never be filled.

“Honey, my heart is heavy today. Not because I have forgotten how to be strong, but because even the strongest hearts have a place that only one person can fill. And that place in my heart will forever belong to you,” she added.

Beyond their personal relationship, Achimugu used the occasion to celebrate her husband’s distinguished career and contributions to Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.

An accomplished engineer, Sulaiman Achimugu served as Managing Director of PPMC, a subsidiary of the then Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), from 2003 to 2007.

He also held other senior positions within the corporation, including Group General Manager of its Renewable Energy Division.

She recalled his commitment to mentoring young professionals, recognising talent and creating opportunities for deserving individuals, regardless of their family backgrounds or personal connections.

According to her, his professional influence extended beyond his immediate workplace, as he helped develop talents and opened doors for people whose careers benefited from his guidance.

Achimugu also credited her late husband with playing a significant role in shaping her personal and professional journey, acknowledging that his encouragement gave her the confidence to pursue ambitions she once considered difficult.

She described him as the man who gave her wings to reach greater heights while continuing to offer support and reassurance throughout their marriage.

His death on 22 March 2020, during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, marked a painful chapter for the family.

The former PPMC chief became Nigeria’s first confirmed COVID-19 fatality, a development that attracted widespread national attention at the time.

The loss was particularly difficult for the family, as it came amid the uncertainty and restrictions associated with the pandemic.

Six years after his death, the memories of their relationship remain an important part of Achimugu’s personal story.

In her latest message, she also reflected on their children, expressing pride in the values their father instilled in them.

She described their sons as young men growing into the principles of discipline, responsibility, courage and faith that their father taught them.

She made particular mention of Mansur, whom she affectionately described as his father’s mini-you, while also recalling their daughter, Aneesa Inikpi Achimugu, and her longing for the everyday moments she once shared with her father.

Achimugu further acknowledged her late husband’s brothers for their continued support and guidance within the family, particularly in providing a fatherly presence for the children.

The tribute also carried a spiritual dimension, with the businesswoman expressing gratitude to Almighty Allah for her husband’s life and praying for the forgiveness of his shortcomings and the acceptance of his good deeds.

She also reflected on the wider community he left behind, including the people of Aloji and the Igala Kingdom, whose lives were touched by his personal and professional contributions.

For Achimugu, the remembrance was not simply about mourning what was lost but recognising the lasting influence of someone whose encouragement, values and affection continue to shape her life.

While she remains active in business and philanthropy through Felak Concept Group and Sam Empowerment Foundation, her message offered a rare personal glimpse into the experiences behind her public profile.

Her tribute serves as a reminder that professional accomplishments and public recognition often exist alongside deeply personal stories of love, grief and resilience.

Some relationships, it appears, leave an imprint that time cannot erase.